Systems and methods for scheduling transmissions from an access node

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are described for scheduling transmissions from an access node. A location may be determined for a plurality of small cells within an access node signal area. Based on the determined locations, a scheduling algorithm may be selected for the access node, where the scheduling algorithm may comprise one of a low proportional fairness scheduling algorithm, a medium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm, and a high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm. Data may then be transmitted from the access node to a plurality of wireless devices based on the selected scheduling algorithm.

TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Telecommunication systems, such as cellular networks or other wirelessnetworks, use various network links throughout the network tocommunicate. For example, an access node may use a network link tocommunicate with another access node while using a separate network linkto communicate with another processing node. Accordingly, the system mayrely on a well-established network to provide efficient communicationservices.

In certain circumstances, a portion of the network may experience highload (e.g., load above a threshold). For example, a communication linkmay experience large amount of data traffic. Here, the efficiency of thesystem may suffer due to excessive load on a portion of the system.Accordingly, a system that effectively balances load and distributestraffic throughout the system may be able to provide a high qualityservice to users of the system.

Overview

Systems and methods are described for scheduling transmissions from anaccess node. A location may be determined for a plurality of small cellswithin an access node signal area. Based on the determined locations, ascheduling algorithm may be selected for the access node, where thescheduling algorithm may comprise one of a low proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm, a medium proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm, and a high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm. Datamay then be transmitted from the access node to a plurality of wirelessdevices based on the selected scheduling algorithm.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary communication system to scheduletransmissions from an access node.

FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary system to schedule transmissionsfrom an access node.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary method of scheduling transmissions froman access node.

FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary system to schedule transmissionsfrom an access node.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate exemplary systems to schedule transmissions froman access node.

FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary method of scheduling transmissionsfrom an access node.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary processing node.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary communication system 100 to scheduletransmissions from an access node comprising wireless devices 102 and104, access node 106, small cell 108, communication network 110, andcommunication links 112, 114, 116, and 118. Other network elements maybe present in the communication system 100 to facilitate communicationbut are omitted for clarity, such as controller nodes, base stations,base station controllers, gateways, mobile switching centers, dispatchapplication processors, and location registers such as a home locationregister or visitor location register. Furthermore, other networkelements may be present to facilitate communication between access node106, small cell 108, and communication network 110 which are omitted forclarity, including additional processing nodes, routers, gateways, andphysical and/or wireless data links for carrying data among the variousnetwork elements.

Wireless devices 102 and 104 can be any device configured to communicateover communication system 100 using a wireless communication link. Forexample, wireless devices 102 and 104 can include a cell phone, a smartphone, a computing platform such as a laptop, palmtop, or a tablet, apersonal digital assistant, or an internet access device, andcombinations thereof. It is noted that while one wireless device isillustrated in FIG. 1 as being in communication with each of access node106 and small cell 108, any number of wireless devices can beimplemented.

Access node 106 and small cell 108 are network nodes capable ofproviding wireless communications to wireless devices 102 and 104, andcan be, for example, a base transceiver station, a radio base station,an eNodeB device, or an enhanced eNodeB device. In an embodiment, accessnode 106 may comprise a macro cell while small cell 108 may comprise asmall cell (e.g., femto cell, pico cell, micro cell, or the like) suchthat the signal area (e.g., area around each node where a wirelessdevice may detect wireless signals transmitted from the node at a signallevel above a threshold) for the macro cell is larger than the signalarea for the small cell. As such, a macro cell may transmit wirelesssignals with a greater signal level (e.g., use a higher transmissionpower) than a small cell. Access node 106 may communicate withcommunication network 110 over communication link 116. Small cell 108may communicate with communication network 110 via access node 106 orusing a separate communication link (not illustrated). Access node 106and small cell 108 may also communicate directly with each other overcommunication link 118.

Although only access node 106 and small cell 108 are illustrated in FIG.1, wireless devices 102 and 104 can be in communication with a pluralityof access nodes and/or small cells. The plurality of access nodes and/orsmall cells can be associated with different networks and can supportdifferent communication protocols and radio access technologies.

Communication network 110 can be a wired and/or wireless communicationnetwork, and can comprise processing nodes, routers, gateways, andphysical and/or wireless data links for carrying data among variousnetwork elements, including combinations thereof, and can include alocal area network, a wide area network, and an internetwork (includingthe Internet). Communication network 110 can be capable of carryingvoice information and other information, for example, to supportcommunications by a wireless device such as wireless device 102.Wireless network protocols may comprise code division multiple access(CDMA) 1×RTT, Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), UniversalMobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), High-Speed Packet Access(HSPA), Evolution Data Optimized (EV-DO), EV-DO rev. A, and ThirdGeneration Partnership Project Long Term Evolution (3GPP LTE). Wirednetwork protocols that may be utilized by communication network 108comprise Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Local Talk (such asCarrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance), Token Ring,Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), and Asynchronous Transfer Mode(ATM). Communication network 110 may also comprise a wireless network,including base stations, wireless communication nodes, telephonyswitches, internet routers, network gateways, computer systems,communication links, or some other type of communication equipment, andcombinations thereof.

Communication links 112, 114, 116, and 118 can be wired or wirelesscommunication links. Wired communication links can comprise, forexample, twisted pair cable, coaxial cable or fiber optic cable, orcombinations thereof. Wireless communication links can comprise a radiofrequency, microwave, infrared, or other similar signal, and can use asuitable communication protocol, for example, GSM, CDMA, UMTS, HSPA,EV-DO, or 3GPP LTE, or combinations thereof. Other wireless protocolscan also be used.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary communication system 200 for schedulingtransmissions from an access node. System 200 comprises access node 202,small cells 204, 206, and 208, and signal area 210. Access node 202 maycomprise an access node similar to access node 106 and small cells 204,206, and 208 may comprise a small cell similar to small cell 108.

In operation, access node 202 may establish communication with one ormore wireless devices such that access node 202 provides the wirelessdevices access to a communication network (e.g., communication network110). Similarly, small cells 204, 206, and 208 may establishcommunication with one or more wireless devices such that the smallcells provide the wireless devices access to a communication network(e.g., communication network 110).

In an embodiment, access node 202 may comprise a macro cell and smallcells 204, 206, and 208 may comprise a small cell (e.g., femto cell,pico cell, micro cell, or the like). For instance, the signal area forthe macro cell may be larger than the signal area for the small cell. Inan embodiment, one or more of small cells 204, 206, and 208 maycommunicate with access node 202 in order to communicate with acommunication network (e.g., communication network 110).

For example, access node 202 may be in communication with acommunication network (e.g., communication network 110) such that thecommunication network provides wireless services for wireless devices.The Communication network may comprise a core network that includes, forexample, a controller node, a gateway node, and any other suitablenetwork elements. In an embodiment, one or more of small cells 204, 206,and 208 may communicate with the communication network using access node202. For example, small cell 204 may transmit data to access node 202such that the transmitted data is used to enable one or more wirelessdevices to access an external network (e.g., the Internet) or to enablethe one or more wireless devices to use services provided by the corenetwork (e.g., voice services). In an embodiment, small cells 204, 206,and 208 may directly communicate with the core network (e.g., withoutaccess node 202). For example, a backhaul for small cells 204, 206, and208 may connect to the core network and a communication network (e.g.,communication network 110), using a wired or wireless communication link(e.g., not via access node 202).

In an embodiment, access node 202 and small cells 202, 204, and 206 maycommunicate (e.g., with one or more wireless device) over the air. Forexample, a plurality of carriers that comprise bandwidth for wirelesscommunications (e.g., 2.5 GHz carrier, 1900 Mhz carrier, and 800 Mhzcarrier, and the like) may include a plurality of channels (e.g., 5 Mhzchannels, 10 Mhz channels, 15 Mhz channels, and the like) that mayfurther be divided into subcarriers.

In an embodiment, system 200 may leverage access node 202 and smallcells 204, 206, and 208 in order to provide wireless services oversignal area 210. In some examples, small cells 204, 206, and 208 mayeach comprise a signal area such that the small cells provide wirelessservices within signal area 210. Here, access node 202 may schedulewireless transmissions from the access node based on the wirelessservices provided by small cells 204, 206, and 208.

In an embodiment, systems and methods are described for schedulingtransmissions from an access node. A location may be determined for aplurality of small cells within an access node signal area. Based on thedetermined locations, a scheduling algorithm may be selected for theaccess node, where the scheduling algorithm may comprise one of a lowproportional fairness scheduling algorithm, a medium proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm, and a high proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm. Data may then be transmitted from the access nodeto a plurality of wireless devices based on the selected schedulingalgorithm.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary method scheduling transmissions from anaccess node. The method will be discussed with reference to theexemplary communication system 200 illustrated in FIG. 2, however, themethod can be implemented with any suitable communication system.

Referring to FIG. 3, at step 302, locations may be determined for aplurality of small cells. For example, locations may be determined forsmall cells 204, 206, and 208. The locations may be determined based onaccessing a database that stores small cell locations, signal levelsdetected (e.g., by access node 202 and/or wireless devices) for thesmall cells within signal area 210, and any other suitable means.

In an embodiment, the determined locations for small cells 204, 206, and208 may be relative to access node 202 and/or relative to an edge ofsignal area 210. For example, the determined locations may be based on adistance from access node 202. A location for small cell 204 maycomprise close proximity to access node 202 while a location for smallcell 208 may comprise close proximity to an edge of signal area 210. Inan embodiment, a location for small cell 206 may not comprise closeproximity to access node 202 and may not comprise close proximity to anedge of signal area 210. Here, small cell 206 may comprise a locationbetween access node 202 and an edge of signal area 210.

At step 304, a scheduling algorithm may be selected for the access nodebased on the determined locations for the small cells. For example,based on the determined locations for small cells 204, 206 and 208, ascheduling algorithm may be selected for access node 202. The schedulingalgorithm may comprise one of a low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm, a medium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm, and ahigh proportional fairness scheduling algorithm. While three types ofproportional fairness scheduling algorithms are described, otherscheduling algorithms may be used that comprise equal rate proportionalfair scheduling, Maximum C/I scheduling, QoS Based scheduling, frequencybased scheduling and the like.

At step 306, data may be transmitted from the access node to a pluralityof wireless devices based on the selected scheduling algorithm. Forexample, access node 202 may transmit data to a plurality of wirelessdevices using the selected scheduling algorithm.

FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary communication system 400 toschedule transmissions from an access node. Communication system 400 maycomprise a wireless devices 402 and 404, access node 406, small cell408, controller node 410, gateway node 412, communication network 414,and communication links 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, and 428. Othernetwork elements may be present in the communication system 400 tofacilitate communication but are omitted for clarity, such as basestations, base station controllers, gateways, mobile switching centers,dispatch application processors, and location registers such as a homelocation register or visitor location register.

Wireless devices 402 and 404 can be any device configured to communicateover communication system 400 using a wireless communication link. Forexample, wireless devices 402 and 404 can include a cell phone, a smartphone, a computing platform such as a laptop, palmtop, or a tablet, apersonal digital assistant, or an internet access device, andcombinations thereof.

Access node 406 and small cell 408 are network nodes capable ofproviding wireless communications to wireless devices 402 and 404, andcan be, for example, a base transceiver station, a radio base station,an eNodeB device, or an enhanced eNodeB device. In an embodiment, accessnode 406 may comprise a macro cell while small cell 408 may comprise asmall cell (e.g., femto cell, pico cell, micro cell, or the like) suchthat the signal area (e.g., the area around each node where a wirelessdevice may detect wireless signals transmitted from the node at a signallevel above a threshold) for the macro cell is larger than the signalarea for the small cell. As such, a macro cell may transmit wirelesssignals with a greater signal level (e.g., use a higher transmissionpower) than a small cell. In an embodiment, access node 406 can comprisea serving access node for wireless device 402 and rely node 408 cancomprise a serving access node for wireless device 404. Access node 406may communicate with controller node 410 over communication link 422 andwith gateway node 412 over communication link 424. Access node 406 andsmall cell 408 may also communicate directly with each other overcommunication link 420. In an embodiment, rely node 408 can communicatedirectly with controller node 410 and gateway node 412 overcommunication links (not depicted).

Controller node 410 can be any network node configured to manageservices within system 400. Controller node 410 may provide othercontrol and management functions for system 400. The controller node 410can be a single device having various functions or a plurality ofdevices having differing functions. For example, controller node 410 caninclude at least one of a multi-cell/multicast coordination entity(MCE), a mobility management entity (MME), a radio network controller(RNC), a mobile switching center (MSC), and a combination thereof.

Controller node 410 can comprise a processor and associated circuitry toexecute or direct the execution of computer-readable instructions toobtain information. Controller node 410 can retrieve and executesoftware from storage, which can include a disk drive, a flash drive,memory circuitry, or some other memory device, and which can be local orremotely accessible. The software may comprise computer programs,firmware, or some other form of machine-readable instructions, and mayinclude an operating system, utilities, drivers, network interfaces,applications, or some other type of software, including combinationsthereof. Controller node 410 can receive instructions and other input ata user interface. Controller node 410 can comprise a processor andassociated circuitry to execute or direct the execution ofcomputer-readable instructions to obtain information.

Gateway node 412 is a network element which can comprise a processor andassociated circuitry to execute or direct the execution ofcomputer-readable instructions. Gateway node 412 may retrieve andexecute software from storage, which can include a disk drive, flashdrive, memory circuitry, or some other memory device, and which can belocal or remotely accessible. The software comprises computer programs,firmware, or some other form of machine-readable instructions, and mayinclude an operating system, utilities, drivers, network interfaces,applications, or some other type of software, including combinationsthereof. In an embodiment, gateway node 412 can provide instructions toaccess node 406 and small cell 408 related to channel selection incommunications with wireless devices 402 and 404. For example, gatewaynode 412 can comprise at least one of a serving gateway (SGW), a packetdata network gateway (PDNGW), a cellular gateway (CGW), and acombination thereof.

Communication network 414 can be a wired and/or wireless communicationnetwork, and can comprise processing nodes, routers, gateways, andphysical and/or wireless data links for carrying data among variousnetwork elements, including combinations thereof, and can include alocal area network, a wide area network, and an internetwork (includingthe Internet). Communication network 414 may also comprise basestations, wireless communication nodes, telephony switches, internetrouters, network gateways, computer systems, communication links, orsome other type of communication equipment, and combinations thereof.Wireless network protocols may comprise code division multiple access(CDMA) 1×RTT, Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), UniversalMobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), High-Speed Packet Access(HSPA), Evolution Data Optimized (EV-DO), EV-DO rev. A, and ThirdGeneration Partnership Project Long Term Evolution (3GPP LTE). Wirednetwork protocols that may be utilized by communication network 414comprise Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Local Talk (such asCarrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance), Token Ring,Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), and Asynchronous Transfer Mode(ATM).

Communication links 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, and 428 can be wiredor wireless communication links. Wired communication links can be, forexample, twisted pair cable, coaxial cable or fiber optic cable, orcombinations thereof. Wireless communication links can be a radiofrequency, microwave, infrared, or other similar signal, and can use asuitable communication protocol, for example, Global System for Mobiletelecommunications (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), or LongTerm Evolution (LTE), or combinations thereof. Other wireless protocolscan also be used.

Other network elements may be present in the communication system 400 tofacilitate wireless communication but are omitted for clarity, such asbase stations, base station controllers, gateways, mobile switchingcenters, dispatch application processors, and location registers such asa home location register or visitor location register. Furthermore,other network elements may be present to facilitate communication amongaccess node 406 and small cell 408, controller node 410, gateway node412, and communication network 414 which are omitted for clarity,including additional processing nodes, routers, gateways, and physicaland/or wireless data links for carrying data among the various networkelements.

In an embodiment, any of controller node 410, gateway node 412, one ormore modules of access node 406, and one or more modules of small cell408 may perform all or parts of the methods of FIGS. 3 and 6.

FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate exemplary communication systems 500A-500C forscheduling transmissions from an access node. Systems 500A-500C compriseaccess node 502, small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C,506C, and 508C, and signal area 510. Access node 502 may comprise anaccess node similar to access node 406 and small cells 504A, 506A, 508A,504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C may comprise a small cell similarto small cell 408. In an embodiment, systems 500A-500C may depictvarious network configurations for small cells (e.g., based on smallcell locations).

In operation, access node 502 may establish communication with one ormore wireless devices such that access node 502 provides the wirelessdevices access to a communication network (e.g., communication network414). Similarly, small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C,506C, and 508C may establish communication with one or more wirelessdevices such that the small cells provide the wireless devices access toa communication network (e.g., communication network 414).

In an embodiment, access node 502 may comprise a macro cell and smallcells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C maycomprise a small cell (e.g., femto cell, pico cell, micro cell, or thelike). For instance, the signal area for the macro cell may be largerthan the signal area for the small cell. In an embodiment, one or moreof small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508Cmay communicate with access node 502 in order to communicate with acommunication network (e.g., communication network 414).

For example, access node 502 may be in communication with a core networksuch that the core network provides wireless services for wirelessdevices. The core network may comprise, for example, a controller node(e.g., controller node 410), a gateway node (e.g., gateway node 412),and any other suitable network elements. In an embodiment, one or moreof small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508Cmay communicate with the core network using access node 502. Forexample, small cell 504A may transmit data to access node 502 such thatthe transmitted data is used to enable one or more wireless devices toaccess an external network (e.g., the Internet) or to enable the one ormore wireless devices to use services provided by the core network(e.g., voice services). In an embodiment, one or more of small cells504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C may directlycommunicate with the core network (e.g., without access node 502). Forexample, a backhaul for small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B,504C, 506C, and 508C may connect to the core network and a communicationnetwork (e.g., communication network 414), using a wired or wirelesscommunication link (e.g., not via access node 502).

In an embodiment, access node 502 and small cells 504A, 506A, 508A,504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C may communicate (e.g., with oneor more wireless device) over the air. For example, a plurality ofcarriers that comprise bandwidth for wireless communications (e.g., 2.5GHz carrier, 1900 Mhz carrier, and 800 Mhz carrier, and the like) mayinclude a plurality of channels (e.g., 5 Mhz channels, 10 Mhz channels,15 Mhz channels, and the like) that may further be divided intosubcarriers.

In an embodiment, systems 500A-500C may leverage access node 502 andsmall cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C inorder to provide wireless services over signal area 510. In anembodiment, as depicted in system 500C, small cells 504C, 506C, and 508Cmay be located proximate to the edge of signal area 510. As depicted insystem 500B, small cells 504B, 506B, and 508B may be located proximateto access node 502. As depicted in system 500A, small cells 504A, 506A,and 508A may be scattered throughout signal area 510. In some examples,small cells 504A, 506A, 508A, 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C mayeach comprise a signal area such that the small cells provide wirelessservices within signal area 510. Accordingly, based on the configurationfor the small cells within signal area 510 (e.g., the locations of thesmall cells), access node 202 may schedule wireless transmissions fromthe access node.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method to schedule transmissions from anaccess node. The method will be discussed with reference to theexemplary communication system 500 illustrated in FIG. 5, however, themethod can be implemented with any suitable communication system.

Referring to FIG. 6, at step 602, signal areas may be determined for aplurality of small cells. For example, for a configuration as depictedin system 500A, signals areas may be determined for small cells 504A,506A, and 508A. For a configuration as depicted in system 500B, signalsareas may be determined for small cells 504B, 506B, and 508B. For aconfiguration as depicted in system 500C, signals areas may bedetermined for small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C. The signal areas may bedetermined based on accessing a database that stores small celllocations, signal levels detected (e.g., by access node 502 and/orwireless devices) for the small cells within signal area 510, and anyother suitable means.

At step 604, locations may be determined for a plurality of small cells.For example, for a configuration as depicted in system 500A, locationsmay be determined for small cells 504A, 506A, and 508A. For aconfiguration as depicted in system 500B, locations may be determinedfor small cells 504B, 506B, and 508B. For a configuration as depicted insystem 500C, locations may be determined for small cells 504C, 506C, and508C. The locations may be determined based on accessing a database thatstores small cell locations, signal levels detected (e.g., by accessnode 502 and/or wireless devices) for the small cells within signal area510, and any other suitable means. In an embodiment, the database maystore locations (e.g., geographic locations) for deployed small cells,and the database may be updated with new and/or changed locations.

In an embodiment, determining the location of the plurality small cellswithin signal area 510 may comprise determining the wireless channelconditions for wireless devices covered by each small cell at thedetermined location, wherein the channel conditions comprise channelconditions for communication between the wireless devices and accessnode 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system 500A, asignal area may be determined for small cell 504A. Accordingly, wirelessdevices within the determined signal area may be covered by small cell504A. Channel conditions may be determined for the wireless devicescovered by small cell 504A, where the channel conditions may be thechannel conditions for communication between the covered wirelessdevices and access node 502.

For example, a wireless device may comprise a channel quality indicator(CQI) relative to communication with an access node. The CQI mayindicate the channel quality for communications between the wirelessdevices and the access node. In an embodiment, the channel conditionsdetermined for wireless devices covered by small cell 504A may comprise,for instance, the CQI for the wireless device when in communication withaccess node 502. Wireless channel conditions for wireless devicescovered by small cells 506A and 508A may be similarly determined. Forconfigurations as depicted in systems 500B and 500C, wireless channelconditions for wireless devices covered by small cells 504B, 506B, 508B,504C, 506C, and 508C may be similarly determined. In an embodiment, theCQIs for wireless devices covered by small cells 504B, 506B, and 508Bmay meet a high CQI threshold while the CQIs for wireless devicescovered by small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C may meet a low CQIthreshold. The CQIs for wireless devices covered by small cells 504A,506A, and 508A may comprise a mix of CQIs that meet the high CQIthreshold, the low CQI threshold, or neither threshold.

In an embodiment, determining the location of the plurality small cellswithin signal area 510 may comprise determining a region for each smallcell that indicates channel conditions for wireless devices within thedetermined signal area for each small cell, wherein the channelconditions comprise channel conditions for communication between thewireless devices and access node 502. For example, for a configurationas depicted in system 500A, a signal area may be determined for smallcell 504A. Based on the signal area, a region may be determined forsmall cell 504A. For example signal area 510 may comprise a plurality ofregions. The regions may indicate the channel conditions for wirelessdevices covered by small cells within that region. For example, smallcells 504B, 506B, and 508B may be located within a region that comprisesa high CQI threshold while small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C may belocated within a region that comprises a low CQI threshold. Small cells504A, 506A, and 508A may be located within a mix of regions thatcomprise a mix of CQI thresholds.

At step 606, a utilization may be determined for the small cells. In anembodiment, for a configuration as depicted in system 500A, autilization may be determined for small cells 504A, 506A, and 508A. Forexample, small cell 504A may communicate with wireless devices and autilization of small cell 504A may be determined. For example, theutilization may comprise a number of connections with wireless devices(e.g., a number of RRC connections), a throughput for the small cell, aprocessor load for the small cell, a percentage of resources used (e.g.,wireless spectrum resources and/or hardware resources), and the like.The utilization for small cells 506A and 508A may be similarlydetermined. For configurations as depicted in systems 500B and 500C, theutilizations for small cells 504B, 506B, 508B, 504C, 506C, and 508C maybe similarly determined.

At step 608, a scheduling algorithm may be selected for the access nodebased on the determined locations for the small cells. For example, fora configuration as depicted in system 500A, based on the determinedlocations for small cells 504A, 506A and 508A, a scheduling algorithmmay be selected for access node 502. The scheduling algorithm maycomprise one of a low proportional fairness scheduling algorithm, amedium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm, and a highproportional fairness scheduling algorithm. While three types ofproportional fairness scheduling algorithms are described, otherscheduling algorithms may be used that comprise equal rate proportionalfair scheduling, Maximum C/I scheduling, QoS Based scheduling, frequencybased scheduling and the like.

In an embodiment, the proportional fairness of a scheduling algorithmmay be based on how well the algorithm distributes resources (e.g.,wireless resources) to wireless devices communicating with an accessnode. Where each of the wireless devices is given an equal amount ofresources, the algorithm may be a proportionally fair algorithm.Accordingly, a high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm mayattempt to distribute wireless resources to wireless devices with a highproportional fairness.

In some circumstances, it may be beneficial to distribute resourcesunevenly. For example, where wireless devices have varying channelquality values (e.g., CQIs), it may be beneficial to distribute morewireless resources to the wireless devices that comprise a high channelquality values because these wireless device can make best use of theresources (e.g., may achieve higher data transmission rates).Accordingly, a low proportional fairness scheduling algorithm mayattempt to distribute wireless resources to wireless devices with a lowproportional fairness. A medium proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may attempt to distribute wireless resources to wirelessdevices with a medium proportional fairness. Examples of data resourcesthat can be distributed comprise any element of spectrum over a periodof time and may include physical resource blocks (PRBs), resourceelements (REs), resource element groups (REGs), slots, and the like.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of the access node signal areameets a threshold criteria, the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards users in good RFconditions such as a Maximum C/I scheduler) may be selected for accessnode 502. For example, where a number of small cells (e.g., a percentageof small cells within signal area 510, an absolute number of smallcells, or any other suitable number) with a location proximate to theedge of signal area 510 meets a threshold criteria (e.g., thresholdpercentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like), the lowproportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected for accessnode 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system 500C,small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C may comprise locations proximate to theedge of signal area 510. Accordingly, the number of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of signal area 510 may meet athreshold criteria, and the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502. For configurations asdepicted in systems 500A and 500B, the number of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of signal area 510 for eachconfiguration may not meet the threshold criteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a low CQI thresholdmeets a threshold criteria, the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards users in good RFconditions such as a Maximum C/I scheduler) may be selected for accessnode 502. For example, where a number of small cells (e.g., a percentageof small cells within signal area 510, an absolute number of smallcells, or any other suitable number) with a location within a regionthat comprises a low CQI threshold meets a threshold criteria (e.g.,threshold percentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like),the low proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system500C, small cells 504C, 506C and 508C may comprise locations within aregion that comprises a low CQI threshold. Accordingly, the number ofsmall cells within a region that comprises a low CQI threshold may meeta threshold criteria, and the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502. For configurations asdepicted in systems 500A and 500B, the number of small cells within aregion that comprises a low CQI threshold for each configuration may notmeet the threshold criteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to access node 502 meets a thresholdcriteria, the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm (or ascheduler that is more weighted towards users in poor RF conditions topreserve cell-edge throughput such as equal rate scheduler) may beselected for access node 502. For example, where a number of small cells(e.g., a percentage of small cells within signal area 510, an absolutenumber of small cells, or any other suitable number) with a locationproximate to access node 502 meets a threshold criteria (e.g., thresholdpercentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like), the highproportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected for accessnode 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system 500B,small cells 504B, 506B and 508B may comprise locations proximate toaccess node 502. Accordingly, the number of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to access node 502 may meet a threshold criteria, andthe high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502. For configurations as depicted in systems 500A and500C, the number of small cells that comprise a location proximate toaccess node 502 for each configuration may not meet the thresholdcriteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQI thresholdmeets a threshold criteria, the high proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards users in poor RFconditions to preserve cell-edge throughput such as equal ratescheduler) may be selected for access node 502. For example, where anumber of small cells (e.g., a percentage of small cells within signalarea 510, an absolute number of small cells, or any other suitablenumber) with a location within a region that comprises a high CQIthreshold meets a threshold criteria (e.g., threshold percentage,threshold number of small cells, and the like), the high proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm may be selected for access node 502. Forexample, for a configuration as depicted in system 500B, small cells504B, 506B and 508B may comprise locations within a region thatcomprises a high CQI threshold. Accordingly, the number of small cellswithin a region that comprises a high CQI threshold may meet a thresholdcriteria, and the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may beselected for access node 502. For configurations as depicted in systems500A and 500B, the number of small cells within a region that comprisesa high CQI threshold for each configuration may not meet the thresholdcriteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to access node 502 does not meet athreshold criteria and a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to an edge of signal area 510 does notmeet a threshold criteria, the medium proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm (or any scheduler that balances users' needs throughout thecell) may be selected for access node 502. For example, where a numberof small cells (e.g., a percentage of small cells within signal area510, an absolute number of small cells, or any other suitable number)with a location proximate to access node 502 does not meet a thresholdcriteria (e.g., threshold percentage, threshold number of small cells,and the like) and where a number of small cells with a locationproximate to an edge of signal area 510 does not meet a thresholdcriteria, the medium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may beselected for access node 502. For example, for a configuration asdepicted in system 500A, small cell 504A may comprise a locationproximate to access node 502, small cell 508A may comprise a locationproximate to an edge of signal area 510, and small cell 506A maycomprise a location proximate to neither access node 502 nor an edge ofsignal area 510. Accordingly, the number of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to access node 502 may not meet a threshold criteriaand the number of small cells that comprise a location proximate to anedge of signal area 510 may not meet a threshold criteria, and themedium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQI thresholddoes not meet a threshold criteria and a number of the plurality ofsmall cells that comprise a location within a region that comprises alow CQI threshold does not meet a threshold criteria, the mediumproportional fairness scheduling algorithm (or any scheduler thatbalances users' needs throughout the cell) may be selected for accessnode 502. For example, where a number of small cells (e.g., a percentageof small cells within signal area 510, an absolute number of smallcells, or any other suitable number) with a location within a regionthat comprises a high CQI threshold does not meet a threshold criteria(e.g., threshold percentage, threshold number of small cells, and thelike) and a number of small cells with a location within a region thatcomprises a low CQI threshold does not meet a threshold criteria, themedium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system500A, small cell 504A may comprise a location within a region thatcomprises a high CQI threshold, small cell 508A may comprise a locationwithin a region that comprises a low CQI threshold, and small cell 506Amay comprise a location within a region that comprises neither a highCQI threshold nor a low CQI threshold. Accordingly, the number of smallcells that comprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQIthreshold may not meet a threshold criteria and the number small cellsthat comprise a location within a region that comprises a low CQIthreshold may not meet a threshold criteria, and the medium proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm may be selected for access node 502.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to access node 502 meets a thresholdcriteria and a number of the plurality of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to an edge of signal area 510 meets a thresholdcriteria, the medium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm (or anyscheduler that balances users' needs throughout the cell) may beselected for access node 502. For example, where a number of small cells(e.g., a percentage of small cells within signal area 510, an absolutenumber small cells, or any other suitable number) with a locationproximate to access node 502 meets a threshold criteria (e.g., thresholdpercentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like) and where anumber of small cells with a location proximate to an edge of signalarea 510 meets a threshold criteria, the medium proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm may be selected for access node 502.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQI thresholdmeets a threshold criteria and a number of the plurality of small cellsthat comprise a location within a region that comprises a low CQIthreshold meets a threshold criteria, the medium proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm (or any scheduler that balances users' needsthroughout the cell) may be selected for access node 502. For example,where a number of small cells (e.g., a percentage of small cells withinsignal area 510, an absolute number of small cells, or any othersuitable number) with a location within a region that comprises a highCQI threshold meets a threshold criteria (e.g., threshold percentage,threshold number of small cells, and the like) and a number of smallcells with a location within a region that comprises a low CQI meets athreshold criteria, the medium proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of the access node signal areameets a threshold criteria and a utilization for the plurality of smallcells that comprise a location proximate to the edge of the access nodesignal area meets a utilization criteria, the low proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards usersin good RF conditions such as a Maximum C/I scheduler) may be selectedfor access node 502. For example, where a number of small cells (e.g., apercentage of small cells within signal area 510, an absolute number ofsmall cells, or any other suitable number) with a location proximate tothe edge of signal area 510 meets a threshold criteria (e.g., thresholdpercentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like) and autilization for the small cells that comprise a location proximate tothe edge of the access node signal area meets a utilization criteria(e.g. processor usage above a threshold, a threshold number of RRCconnections, and the like), the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502. For example, for aconfiguration as depicted in system 500C, small cells 504C, 506C and508C may comprise locations proximate to the edge of signal area 510.Accordingly, the number of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the edge of signal area 510 may meet a threshold criteria.Where the utilization for small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C also meets autilization criteria, the low proportional fairness scheduling algorithmmay be selected for access node 502. For configurations as depicted insystems 500A and 500B, the number of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to the edge of signal area 510 for each configurationmay not meet the threshold criteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a low CQI thresholdmeets a threshold criteria and a utilization for the plurality of smallcells that comprise a location within a region that comprises a low CQIthreshold meets a utilization criteria, the low proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards usersin good RF conditions such as a Maximum C/I scheduler) may be selectedfor access node 502. For example, where a number of small cells (e.g., apercentage of small cells within signal area 510, an absolute number ofsmall cells, or any other suitable number) with a location within aregion that comprises a low CQI threshold meets a threshold criteria(e.g., threshold percentage, threshold number of small cells, and thelike) and a utilization for the small cells that comprise a locationwithin a region that comprises a low CQI threshold meets a utilizationcriteria (e.g. processor usage above a threshold, a threshold number ofRRC connections, and the like), the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502. For example, for aconfiguration as depicted in system 500C, small cells 504C, 506C and508C may comprise locations within a region that comprises a low CQIthreshold. Accordingly, the number of small cells within a region thatcomprises a low CQI threshold may meet a threshold criteria. Where theutilization for small cells 504C, 506C, and 508C also meets autilization criteria, the low proportional fairness scheduling algorithmmay be selected for access node 502. For configurations as depicted insystems 500A and 500B, the number of small cells within a region thatcomprises a low CQI threshold for each configuration may not meet thethreshold criteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the access node meets a thresholdcriteria and a utilization for the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the access node meets a utilizationcriteria, the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm (or ascheduler that is more weighted towards users in poor RF conditions topreserve cell-edge throughput such as equal rate scheduler) may beselected for access node 502. For example, where a number of small cells(e.g., a percentage of small cells within signal area 510, an absolutenumber of small cells, or any other suitable number) with a locationproximate to access node 502 meets a threshold criteria (e.g., thresholdpercentage, threshold number of small cells, and the like) and autilization for the small cells that comprise a location proximate toaccess node 502 meets a utilization criteria (e.g. processor usage abovea threshold, a threshold number of RRC connections, and the like), thehigh proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system500B, small cells 504B, 506B and 508B may comprise locations proximateto access node 502. Accordingly, the number of small cells that comprisea location proximate to access node 502 may meet a threshold criteria.Where the utilization for small cells 504B, 506B, and 508B also meets autilization criteria, the high proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm may be selected for access node 502. For configurations asdepicted in systems 500A and 500C, the number of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of signal area 510 for eachconfiguration may not meet the threshold criteria.

In an embodiment, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQI thresholdmeets a threshold criteria and a utilization for the plurality of smallcells that comprise a location within a region that comprises a high CQIthreshold meets a utilization criteria, the high proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm (or a scheduler that is more weighted towards usersin poor RF conditions to preserve cell-edge throughput such as equalrate scheduler) may be selected for access node 502. For example, wherea number of small cells (e.g., a percentage of small cells within signalarea 510, an absolute number of small cells, or any other suitablenumber) with a location within a region that comprises a high CQIthreshold meets a threshold criteria (e.g., threshold percentage,threshold number of small cells, and the like) and a utilization for thesmall cells that comprise a location within a region that comprises ahigh CQI threshold meets a utilization criteria (e.g. processor usageabove a threshold, a threshold number of RRC connections, and the like),the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm may be selected foraccess node 502. For example, for a configuration as depicted in system500B, small cells 504B, 506B and 508B may comprise locations within aregion that comprises a high CQI threshold. Accordingly, the number ofsmall cells within a region that comprises a high CQI threshold may meeta threshold criteria. Where the utilization for small cells 504B, 506B,and 508B also meets a utilization criteria, the high proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm may be selected for access node 502. Forconfigurations as depicted in systems 500A and 500B, the number of smallcells within a region that comprises a high CQI threshold for eachconfiguration may not meet the threshold criteria.

At step 610, data may be transmitted from the access node to a pluralityof wireless devices based on the selected scheduling algorithm. Forexample, access node 502 may transmit data to a plurality of wirelessdevices using the selected scheduling algorithm.

Although the methods described perform steps in a particular order forpurposes of illustration, the methods discussed herein are not limitedto any particular order or arrangement. One skilled in the art, usingthe disclosure provided herein, will appreciate that various steps ofthe methods can be omitted, rearranged, combined, and/or adapted invarious ways.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary processing node 700 in a communicationsystem. Processing node 700 comprises communication interface 702, userinterface 704, and processing system 706 in communication withcommunication interface 702 and user interface 704. Processing node 700can be configured to determine a communication access node for awireless device. Processing system 706 includes storage 708, which cancomprise a disk drive, flash drive, memory circuitry, or other memorydevice. Storage 708 can store software 710 which is used in theoperation of the processing node 700. Storage 708 may include a diskdrive, flash drive, data storage circuitry, or some other memoryapparatus. Software 710 may include computer programs, firmware, or someother form of machine-readable instructions, including an operatingsystem, utilities, drivers, network interfaces, applications, or someother type of software. Processing system 706 may include amicroprocessor and other circuitry to retrieve and execute software 710from storage 708. Processing node 700 may further include othercomponents such as a power management unit, a control interface unit,etc., which are omitted for clarity. Communication interface 702 permitsprocessing node 700 to communicate with other network elements. Userinterface 704 permits the configuration and control of the operation ofprocessing node 700.

Examples of processing node 700 include controller node 408 and gatewaynode 410. Processing node 700 can also be an adjunct or component of anetwork element, such as an element of access nodes 106 or 406, anelement of small cells 108 or 408, and the like. Processing node 700 canalso be another network element in a communication system. Further, thefunctionality of processing node 700 can be distributed over two or morenetwork elements of a communication system.

The exemplary systems and methods described herein can be performedunder the control of a processing system executing computer-readablecodes embodied on a computer-readable recording medium or communicationsignals transmitted through a transitory medium. The computer-readablerecording medium is any data storage device that can store data readableby a processing system, and includes both volatile and nonvolatilemedia, removable and non-removable media, and contemplates mediareadable by a database, a computer, and various other network devices.

Examples of the computer-readable recording medium include, but are notlimited to, read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), erasableelectrically programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory or other memorytechnology, holographic media or other optical disc storage, magneticstorage including magnetic tape and magnetic disk, and solid statestorage devices. The computer-readable recording medium can also bedistributed over network-coupled computer systems so that thecomputer-readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion.The communication signals transmitted through a transitory medium mayinclude, for example, modulated signals transmitted through wired orwireless transmission paths.

The above description and associated figures teach the best mode of theinvention. The following claims specify the scope of the invention. Notethat some aspects of the best mode may not fall within the scope of theinvention as specified by the claims. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that the features described above can be combined in variousways to form multiple variations of the invention, and that variousmodifications may be made to the configuration and methodology of theexemplary embodiments disclosed herein without departing from the scopeof the present teachings. Those skilled in the art also will appreciatethat various features disclosed with respect to one exemplary embodimentherein may be used in combination with other exemplary embodiments withappropriate modifications, even if such combinations are not explicitlydisclosed herein. As a result, the invention is not limited to thespecific embodiments described above, but only by the following claimsand their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for scheduling transmissions from anaccess node, the method comprising: determining a location for aplurality of small cells within an access node signal area; selecting,based on the determined locations for the plurality of small cells, ascheduling algorithm for the access node comprising one of a lowproportional fairness scheduling algorithm, a medium proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm, and a high proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm; and transmitting data from the access node to aplurality of wireless devices based on the selected schedulingalgorithm.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the location ofthe plurality small cells within the access node signal area comprisesdetermining the locations relative to the edge of the access node signalarea and the location of the access node.
 3. The method of claim 2,wherein, when a number of the plurality of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to the edge of the access node signal area meets athreshold criteria, the low proportional fairness scheduling algorithmis selected for the access node.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein, whena number of the plurality of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the location of the access node meets a threshold criteria,the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm is selected for theaccess node.
 5. The method of claim 2, wherein, when a number of theplurality of small cells that comprise a location proximate to the edgeof the access node signal area does not meet a threshold criteria andwhen a number of the plurality of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the location of the access node does not meet the thresholdcriteria, the medium proportional fairness scheduling algorithm isselected for the access node.
 6. The method of claim 2, wherein, when anumber of the plurality of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the edge of the access node signal area meets a thresholdcriteria and when a number of the plurality of small cells that comprisea location proximate to the location of the access node meets thethreshold criteria, the medium proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm is selected for the access node.
 7. The method of claim 2,further comprising determining a utilization for each of the pluralityof small cells.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein, when a number of theplurality of small cells that comprise a location proximate to the edgeof the access node signal area meets a threshold criteria and autilization for the plurality of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the edge of the access node signal area meets a utilizationcriteria, the low proportional fairness scheduling algorithm is selectedfor the access node.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein, when a number ofthe plurality of small cells that comprise a location proximate to thelocation of the access node meets a threshold criteria and a utilizationfor the plurality of small cells that comprise a location proximate tothe location of the access node meets a utilization criteria, the highproportional fairness scheduling algorithm is selected for the accessnode.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein determining the location of theplurality small cells within the access node signal area comprisesdetermining the wireless channel conditions for wireless devices coveredby each small cell at the determined location, wherein the channelconditions comprise channel conditions for communication between thewireless devices and the access node.
 11. The method of claim 1, whereindetermining the location of the plurality small cells within the accessnode signal area comprises: determining a signal area for each smallcell within the access node signal area; and determining a region foreach small cell that indicates channel conditions for wireless deviceswithin the determined signal area for each small cell, wherein thechannel conditions comprise channel conditions for communication betweenthe wireless devices and the access node.
 12. A system for schedulingtransmissions from an access node, the system comprising: a processingnode with a processor configured to: determine a location for aplurality of small cells within an access node signal area; select,based on the determined locations for the plurality of small cells, ascheduling algorithm for the access node comprising one of a lowproportional fairness scheduling algorithm, a medium proportionalfairness scheduling algorithm, and a high proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm; and transmit data from the access node to aplurality of wireless devices based on the selected schedulingalgorithm.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein determining the locationof the plurality small cells within the access node signal areacomprises determining the locations relative to the edge of the accessnode signal area and the location of the access node.
 14. The system ofclaim 13, wherein, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of the access node signal areameets a threshold criteria, the low proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm is selected for the access node.
 15. The system of claim 13,wherein, when a number of the plurality of small cells that comprise alocation proximate to the location of the access node meets a thresholdcriteria, the high proportional fairness scheduling algorithm isselected for the access node.
 16. The system of claim 13, wherein, whena number of the plurality of small cells that comprise a locationproximate to the edge of the access node signal area does not meet athreshold criteria and when a number of the plurality of small cellsthat comprise a location proximate to the location of the access nodedoes not meet the threshold criteria, the medium proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm is selected for the access node.
 17. The system ofclaim 13, wherein the processing node is further configured to determinea utilization for each of the plurality of small cells.
 18. The systemof claim 17, wherein, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the edge of the access node signal areameets a threshold criteria and a utilization for the plurality of smallcells that comprise a location proximate to the edge of the access nodesignal area meets a utilization criteria, the low proportional fairnessscheduling algorithm is selected for the access node.
 19. The system ofclaim 17, wherein, when a number of the plurality of small cells thatcomprise a location proximate to the location of the access node meets athreshold criteria and a utilization for the plurality of small cellsthat comprise a location proximate to the location of the access nodemeets a utilization criteria, the high proportional fairness schedulingalgorithm is selected for the access node.
 20. The system of claim 12,wherein determining the location of the plurality small cells within theaccess node signal area comprises: determining a signal area for eachsmall cell within the access node signal area; determining a region foreach small cell that indicates channel conditions for wireless deviceswithin the determined signal area for each small cell, wherein thechannel conditions comprise channel conditions for communication betweenthe wireless devices and the access node.